During the most recent College Council meeting, State University of New York at Fredonia President Stephen Kolison listed 12 goals for the campus. Most of them were talking points regarding what was happening at the institution and its efforts on finances.

He also mentioned one other important piece: Increase engagement and visibility with the university community, local and county chambers of commerce, and selected higher education organizations. Kolison also mentioned “efforts to transform healthcare in northern Chautauqua County. A modern Brooks TLC Hospital.”

As much as northern Chautauqua County relies on the university as an economic engine, community members need a strong voice to come from the institution. Previous university presidents understood a need for advocacy for the region as they have one of the loudest voices when it comes to Albany.

Having a new hospital is one step. Counting on reliable water is where the administration could be more vocal. Enrollment is impacted by every boil-water order.

Kolison has worked to reduce the SUNY deficit while enrollment has stabilized. That’s no easy feat in upstate where population has declined.

But now, more than ever, the university also has to understand its role to help boost a struggling community.